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American Dennis Coyle, a 64-year-old academic from Colorado, has been detained in Afghanistan by the Taliban for one year. Coyle was taken from his Kabul apartment by force and has been held in near-solitary confinement without charges. His family says he is being held in a basement room and has been denied basic rights. The Taliban claims Coyle is in good health and that his rights are protected. The US government has designated Coyle as wrongfully detained and has been working to secure his release. The case highlights the ongoing risks faced by Americans in Afghanistan and the challenges of negotiating with the Taliban.

The article provides an in-depth look at Shen Yun, a stage production that combines Chinese history, legends, and politics, and its connection to the Falun Gong spiritual movement. The production is based at Dragon Springs, a 400-acre compound in New York State, where young performers are trained. Former performers allege that they were subjected to forced labor, physical and emotional abuse, and denied medical attention when injured. Shen Yun officials deny these allegations, claiming that the lawsuits against them are part of a Chinese government campaign to sabotage the group. The article explores the history of Falun Gong, its ban in China, and the experiences of former Shen Yun performers.

The Canadian government has conditionally approved a plan to export Marineland's beluga whales to the United States, saving them from euthanasia. Marineland, a shuttered theme park and zoo in Niagara Falls, Ontario, had pleaded with Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson to authorize the export permits, citing financial difficulties and the risk of euthanizing the animals if the permits were not approved by January 30. The park is in discussions with four U.S. institutions to take its 30 beluga whales and four dolphins. The decision comes after Marineland presented an urgent rescue solution to the federal government, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed support for the move.

Australian cyclist Jay Vine won the Tour Down Under cycle race despite being knocked off his bike by a kangaroo during the final stage. Vine was leading the race by 1 minute and 3 seconds when the incident occurred, and he managed to recover and finish the stage 1 minute and 3 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher. The kangaroo incident also affected other cyclists, with three riders forced to quit the race and the kangaroo itself being injured. Vine attributed his win to his determination and the challenging circumstances.

An explosion and fire at a cookie factory in central Greece killed five female night shift workers and injured seven others. The blast occurred at the Violanta biscuit plant near Trikala, about 200 miles north of Athens. The cause of the explosion is suspected to be near the ovens, which operate around the clock. The incident is one of Greece's most fatal industrial accidents in recent years. The company, Violanta, has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and is cooperating with investigators. The Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.

A ferry carrying over 350 people sank near an island in the southern Philippines, resulting in at least 18 deaths and over 300 rescues. The vessel, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, was traveling from Zamboanga to Jolo island when it encountered technical problems and sank. Rescuers, including coast guard and naval ships, as well as fishing boats, conducted search and rescue operations for those still missing. The cause of the sinking is under investigation, and officials have stated that the ferry was cleared before departure and showed no signs of overloading. The incident highlights the common occurrence of sea accidents in the Philippine archipelago due to various factors such as frequent storms and poorly maintained vessels.

Gunmen attacked a soccer field in Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico, killing 11 people and wounding 12 others. The attack occurred at the end of a soccer match, with a woman and a child among the wounded. The mayor described the attack as 'regrettable and cowardly' and part of a 'crime wave' in the city. The Guanajuato state prosecutor's office is investigating and coordinating with federal authorities to reinforce security. The violence in Guanajuato is linked to conflict between the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation cartel. The region has experienced a surge in violence in recent months, with multiple incidents of mass killings and discoveries of human remains. The mayor appealed to President Claudia Sheinbaum for help to control the violence.

A lightning strike near a rally of supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in Brasilia on Sunday injured 89 people, according to the fire department. The rally was organized to demand 'amnesty' for Bolsonaro, who is currently incarcerated after being sentenced to 27 years in prison for leading a failed coup d'etat. Thousands gathered in the rain to support Bolsonaro, who has been experiencing health complications since a 2018 stabbing incident. The incident has drawn attention to Bolsonaro's situation and the ongoing support he receives from his followers.

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee has released the 232-athlete roster for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, featuring athletes ranging in age from 15-year-old freeskier Abby Winterberger to 54-year-old curler Rich Ruohonen. The team includes 117 men and 115 women, with seven athletes making their fifth Olympic appearance. The roster comprises 33 returning medalists, including bobsledders Kaillie Humphries and Elana Meyers Taylor. The Olympics will take place from February 4 to February 6, with events spread across Milan, Cortina, and other mountain clusters.

A CBS News investigation found that Elon Musk's X platform and Grok AI tool still allow users to digitally undress people without their consent, despite public pledges to stop this feature. The European Union has announced an investigation into X's Grok AI editing function, while the UK government has warned that X could face a ban if it fails to block the 'bikini-fy' tool. The issue has sparked international backlash, with regulators and advocacy groups calling for stricter regulations on AI-generated content.

The article discusses the autopsy reports of four University of Idaho students who were murdered by Bryan Kohberger in November 2022. The reports revealed the horrific stabbing injuries and final movements of the victims, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger stabbed the victims a total of 150 times, with Kernodle putting up a struggle against him. The article also mentions that Kohberger left behind the sheath of a Ka-Bar knife with his DNA on it, which was a crucial evidence in his conviction. Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders in July and is being held at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution.

The article criticizes Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for comparing ICE's search for illegal aliens to the Nazis' hunt for Jews during the Holocaust, specifically referencing Anne Frank. The author argues that this comparison is despicable, morally wrong, and a misuse of the Holocaust to score political points against President Donald Trump. The article also condemns other Democrats and liberal figures, such as Stephen King, for making similar comparisons between ICE and the Nazi regime. The author believes that this kind of rhetoric trivializes the Holocaust, stokes tension and violence, and is a result of 'Trump Derangement Syndrome'.

The NFL has lifted its ban on Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, allowing him to attend Super Bowl 2026. The ban was imposed due to a 2015 protest at the NFL's Manhattan headquarters over Tom Brady's suspension in the 'Deflategate' scandal. Portnoy was arrested during the sit-in protest and later kicked out of the Super Bowl in 2017. The NFL has now informed TMZ that Portnoy can attend the Super Bowl as long as he buys a ticket. It is unclear if the ban has been lifted for all Barstool Sports employees.

A private jet, a Bombardier Challenger 600, crashed and exploded at Bangor International Airport in Maine during a snowstorm on Sunday, killing all six people on board. The victims have been identified as Tara Arnold, a lawyer and wife of a prominent Texas law firm founder, Jacob Hosmer, the pilot, and Shawna Collins, an event planner. The plane was registered to Arnold & Itkin Law, a personal-injury firm founded by Tara's husband Kurt Arnold and his business partner Jason Itkin. The cause of the crash is unclear, but experts suggest that the weather conditions and the plane's history of takeoff troubles in cold weather may have played a role.

The article discusses the phenomenon of 'frost quakes,' which occur when frozen ground suddenly cracks during rapid temperature drops, causing loud booms and vibrations. Areas in the US, including northern Tennessee and central Kentucky, reported such incidents after a deadly winter storm. Frost quakes are generally harmless and are caused by the freezing and expansion of moist soil or groundwater, which puts pressure on the ground until it cracks. They are more common in cold climates with sharp temperature swings and in areas with porous soil. While they can be startling and cause minor infrastructure damage, frost quakes are not as destructive as earthquakes.

The article criticizes the left for threatening to deny medical care to those they disagree with politically, citing examples of healthcare workers making derogatory comments or refusing care to certain individuals. The author argues that this behavior is a violation of the oath to provide care without bias and erodes the foundation of civilized society. The article highlights several instances of healthcare workers making politically motivated decisions, including a Florida nurse who wished harm on a pregnant White House Press Secretary and another who claimed he wouldn't perform anesthesia on 'MAGA' patients. The author emphasizes that medical care should not be denied based on political beliefs.

A New York City public school mom shares her experience with remote learning on a snowy day, highlighting the challenges and chaos that come with it. The author recounts the morning's events, from the kids struggling to log on to the various technical issues and distractions that arose. Despite the difficulties, the author notes some positive aspects, such as the kids being occupied and the teachers showing kindness and patience. The article concludes with the family abandoning remote learning and heading out to play in the snow.

NBA legend Paul Pierce is facing a paternity lawsuit filed by Princess Santiago, a Los Angeles event director, who claims he is the father of her unborn son. Santiago is seeking a DNA test to prove Pierce's paternity and has stated that the case is about accountability and doing what's right for her child. Pierce has three children with his ex-wife Julie Landrum, and his lawyer has declined to comment on the matter. Pierce has been involved in controversy recently, having been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in October 2025.

Stanford University has reached a settlement with the family of Katie Meyer, a 22-year-old soccer star who died by suicide in 2022. The family had filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the university, alleging that the school's disciplinary actions and threats of punishment contributed to Meyer's death. As part of the settlement, Stanford will retire Meyer's number 19 jersey, adopt the principles of 'Katie Meyer's Law' to provide mental health support to students facing disciplinary action, and launch a new mental health initiative for student athletes. The university will also establish the 'Katie Meyer Leadership Award.' The financial terms of the settlement are being kept confidential.

The French National Assembly has voted in favor of a bill to ban social media access for under-15s, a proposal supported by President Emmanuel Macron. The bill, which is expected to pass the upper house, the Senate, would prohibit young teenagers from using social media networks like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok. The move is part of a growing trend of restricting social media for children due to concerns over its impact on mental health. The bill would also ban the use of mobile phones in senior schools and require parental approval for access to certain social media sites. Macron has called the vote a 'major step' and urged the government to accelerate the next steps to implement the ban as early as next school year.

A Tokyo court has ordered North Korea to pay 88 million Japanese yen ($570,000; £416,000) in compensation to four individuals who were lured to North Korea in the 1960s by a propaganda scheme promising a 'paradise on Earth' but instead faced harsh conditions including forced labor. The plaintiffs, who are ethnic Koreans living in Japan, later escaped North Korea. The ruling is largely symbolic as North Korea has ignored the lawsuit and its leader Kim Jong Un has not responded to Japanese court summons. The case was initially rejected by a Tokyo district court in 2022 but was later overturned by the Tokyo High Court in 2023.

Meta is set to trial premium subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp users, offering additional features such as expanded artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. The new offerings will not affect the core services, which will remain free. Meta plans to test subscriptions for features like its Vibes video generation app and Manus, a Chinese-founded AI firm it acquired in December. The company will continue to offer standalone Manus subscriptions to businesses. This move is part of Meta's latest experiment with paid services, following the introduction of a paid verification service in 2023.

An outbreak of the Nipah virus in India's West Bengal state has prompted neighboring countries to tighten screening measures at airports and border crossings. Thailand and Nepal have begun screening passengers arriving from West Bengal, while Taiwan is considering listing Nipah as a Category 5 disease. The virus can spread from animals to humans and has a high mortality rate, ranging from 40% to 75%. Five healthcare workers in West Bengal were infected, with one in critical condition, and 110 people who came into contact with them have been quarantined. The World Health Organization has identified Nipah as a top-ten priority disease due to its potential to trigger an epidemic.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to face pre-trial proceedings for alleged crimes against humanity related to his 'war on drugs'. Duterte's lawyers had argued that he was unfit due to 'cognitive impairment', but ICC judges cited medical experts' opinions to conclude that he can effectively exercise his procedural rights. A hearing is set for February 23 to decide whether the case against Duterte will proceed to trial. Duterte's presidency was marked by a violent crackdown on drugs, resulting in thousands of deaths without trial. His arrest in March 2025 has divided Filipinos, with some supporting his populist message and others criticizing his deadly policies.

Sly Dunbar, a renowned reggae drummer and producer, has died at the age of 73. He was known for his work with artists such as Bob Marley, The Rolling Stones, and Grace Jones, and was part of the influential production duo Sly & Robbie. Dunbar's death was confirmed by his wife and publicist, and tributes have been paid by the music industry. He was estimated to have played on over 200,000 recordings and was a key figure in shaping the sound of reggae music.

A severe winter storm swept across the US, causing at least a dozen deaths, thousands of flight delays, and power outages affecting over 200,000 people in Tennessee alone. The storm brought heavy snowfall, with some areas in the northeast receiving over 20 inches of snow in 24 hours. The National Weather Service warned of another significant winter storm potentially hitting the eastern US this weekend, with forecasters cautioning that the path and impact of the storm are still uncertain. The storm also affected southern Ontario, Canada, with Toronto Pearson Airport receiving a record 18.1 inches of snowfall on Sunday.

Firefighters in Victoria, Australia are battling at least six major fires as a record-breaking heatwave hits the south-east region. Two fires are currently burning at 'emergency level' and several communities have been issued emergency warnings to evacuate or shelter in place. The Bureau of Meteorology reports all-time temperature highs in parts of the state, with one area reaching 48.9C and Melbourne recording 41C. Fire officials warn of rapidly changing conditions and health officials caution that the prolonged heat poses significant health risks, particularly for the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions.

Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated that the government is considering 'all options' for the resettlement of residents affected by the Tai Po fire, which killed 167 people and displaced 5,000. The government has received feedback from 90% of the affected property owners and is analyzing it to determine the best course of action. Lee emphasized the importance of announcing a long-term resettlement plan but did not provide a timeline. The government had previously distributed questionnaires to flat owners, offering options such as a buyout plan, a flat-for-flat arrangement, and an in situ development plan.

Hong Kong's leader, John Lee Ka-chiu, has urged the public to accept the new mandatory rule requiring passengers to wear seat belts on buses, despite complaints about inconvenience and poor quality of restraints. Lee emphasized that the regulation is necessary to protect lives and is in line with practices in other jurisdictions. The new rule applies to all passengers on public or private buses, with some exceptions. The mandate has been met with pushback from the public, with concerns raised about the suitability of the restraints for young children and the difficulty of reaching 'stop' buttons.

Malaysia aims to become a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) hub, with the opening of its first commercial-scale SAF plant by Hong Kong-based EcoCeres. However, the demand for SAF in Asia is currently low, with most of the demand coming from Europe. EcoCeres CEO Matti Lievonen stated that more than 50% of the plant's output would be exported to Europe due to thin demand in Malaysia and the region. The industry is pushing for government mandates and long-term commitments to boost demand in Southeast Asia.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that Japan's alliance with the US would collapse if Tokyo failed to respond to an attack on US forces during joint operations in Taiwan. Takaichi elaborated on her previous remarks made in November, which angered Beijing, saying that Japan would respond 'strictly within the limits of the law' in case of a Taiwan conflict. The comments were made during a Japanese television program, where Takaichi was pressed to clarify her previous statements about a 'Taiwan contingency' scenario.

The trial for the murder of Hong Kong model Abby Choi Tin-fung is set to begin on September 21 and is expected to last 45 days. Abby Choi's ex-husband, Alex Kwong Kong-chi, his brother Anthony Kwong Kong-kit, and their father Kwong Kau will stand trial for her alleged killing. The pre-trial hearing was held on January 27, 2026, where the trio appeared before Deputy High Court Judge Brian Keith without legal representation. The case has drawn significant attention due to its brutality, with parts of Choi's body found in a flat in Lung Mei Tsuen, Tai Po, in February 2023.

The article discusses how the US's inward focus under President Donald Trump's 'America First' agenda has created an opportunity for China's development. Ni Feng, a researcher at a Chinese think tank, suggests that China should capitalize on its domestic stability and progress to navigate the increasingly complex and volatile world order resulting from Trump's policies. The article highlights concerns globally about the impact of Trump's agenda on the world order, citing examples such as Trump's talk of taking over Greenland and the US abduction of Venezuela's former leader.

During Blackpink's three concerts at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, fans speculated about lead singer Rosé's local snack choices. The singer's food preferences became a highlight of the group's visit, with fans and residents guessing what she would eat on her way to the stage. Rosé's choices, including egg waffles, Hong Kong-style milk tea, and curry fish balls, delighted fans and showcased the group's appreciation for local food culture.

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The article discusses a new book about India's economic growth and development, highlighting the insights of Arvind Subramanian, the former chief economist of the Indian government. Subramanian's annual 'Economic Survey' reports were notable for their striking charts and provocative arguments, including a chart showing that democracy and development tend to go hand in hand. The article explores the implications of this finding for India's future growth and development, suggesting that the country may converge to the global mean through either fast growth or institutional decline.

The Japanese bond market is experiencing tremors due to a clash between the Bank of Japan (BoJ) and the government of Takaichi Sanae over fiscal and monetary policies. The yield on 30-year Japanese government bonds (JGBs) rose by a quarter of a percentage point, the most in a day since 1999. Investors are worried about the government's budgetary laxity, and the BoJ is preparing for more rate hikes. The tension between the BoJ and the government is causing uncertainty in the bond market, which will be closely watched during the BoJ's upcoming meeting.

The article discusses how national job stereotypes are changing as unemployment rates in rich countries reach historical lows. The OECD's average unemployment rate has hit record lows over the past three years, with the employment rate of working-age people at an all-time high. The article highlights that long-standing stereotypes are melting away, indicating a significant shift in the labor market.

The article discusses the emerging sport of skijoring, a winter discipline where athletes are pulled by horses, in Heber City, Utah. The first-ever pro skijoring tour is taking place, drawing fans and vendors. The sport has Olympic aspirations and is gaining popularity in the Mountain West region of the United States.

The article discusses the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on white-collar jobs, citing warnings from prominent figures such as Kristalina Georgieva, Jamie Dimon, and Dario Amodei. However, the article argues that AI will not wipe out white-collar jobs, but rather expand their scope and raise their value. The article suggests that while AI may automate some tasks, it will also create new opportunities for professionals to focus on higher-value tasks that require human skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

At least 15 people have died and hundreds have been rescued after a ferry, the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, sank in the southern Philippines. The ferry was traveling from Zamboanga to Jolo island in Sulu province when it encountered technical problems and sank near Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan province. Coast guard officials reported that 316 passengers were rescued, while 28 remain missing. Military aircraft and vessels were deployed to assist with rescue efforts. The incident is under investigation, and the cause is yet to be determined. Seafaring accidents are common in the Philippines due to factors such as frequent storms, poorly maintained vessels, overcrowding, and lax enforcement of safety regulations.

Russia launched a 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine's two largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv, during peace talks in Abu Dhabi, cutting power to 1.2 million buildings nationwide. Despite the attack, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said negotiations could resume as early as next week. The talks, described as 'productive' and 'constructive', focused on ending the war. US officials reported 'unexpected chemistry' between the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, raising hopes for a potential meeting between Zelenskyy and Russian President Putin.

Interpol's Operation Liberterra III, involving 14,000 police across 119 countries, has helped 4,414 people trapped in human trafficking, including a child kidnapped for organ removal. The operation targeted various forms of exploitation, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, and organ removal, and resulted in numerous arrests and the disruption of criminal networks.

American climber Alex Honnold successfully scaled the Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan without using ropes or protective equipment on January 25, 2026. The 40-year-old free solo climber completed the ascent in just over 90 minutes, with a crowd gathered below cheering as he reached the top of the 508m tower. The climb was originally scheduled for the previous day but was delayed due to rain. Honnold, known for his 2017 feat of free soloing Yosemite's El Capitan, described the experience as 'incredible' and 'beautiful,' despite the windy conditions. The event was broadcast live on Netflix with a 10-second delay, marking a departure from Honnold's usual solo climbs in remote areas. Honnold is not the first to climb the Taipei 101, but he is the first to do so without a rope.

A landslide triggered by torrential rain on Indonesia's Java island has killed at least 25 people, with 72 still missing and believed to be buried under mud, rocks, and trees. The disaster occurred in the West Bandung district of West Java province, where over 30 homes were buried, and around 230 residents were evacuated. The search operation continues, complicated by the unstable terrain and weather conditions. Environmental activists have linked the landslide to years of environmental degradation due to land conversion for development, violating land-use rules in the region.

The article reports on the struggles of Ukrainians during the winter as Russia's war against Ukraine continues. Millions are suffering from power outages, lack of heating, electricity, and water due to repeated Russian airstrikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Residents in Kyiv are coping with temperatures as low as -20C by wearing multiple layers, using gas ovens for warmth, and relying on community support to survive. The situation is particularly dire for the elderly and young children.

Apple has unveiled an upgraded AirTag accessory with improved features, including longer range, a louder speaker, and enhanced tracking capabilities. The new AirTag uses an upgraded Bluetooth chip and can locate lost items from up to 50% farther away than the previous generation. The device is available now for the same price as its predecessor, at $29, and can still be purchased in a four-pack for $99. The new AirTag also includes a range of protections against unwanted tracking or stalking, and continues to integrate with Apple's Find My network.

The article discusses the growing concern of AI delusions and their impact on mental health. Dr. Julia Sheffield, a psychologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre, has been treating patients who have developed delusions after interacting with AI chatbots. The article highlights the challenges faced by mental health professionals in treating these patients and the need for a better understanding of the effects of AI on mental health.

The article discusses various news stories related to the property market, including the rise and fall of property prices, new home sales, and rental fraud. Some of the key highlights include private home prices rising at a gentler pace of 3.3% in 2025, new home sales hitting a 4-year high, and rental fraud spiking 400% in Malaysia. The article also mentions a Trump executive order restricting Wall Street firms from buying single-family homes and a notable property sale at Cuppage Terrace.

The article discusses the impact of the Trump administration's tariffs on the US toy industry, particularly on small businesses. The tariffs, imposed on Chinese imports, have led to increased costs for toy retailers, forcing some to close their doors. The article highlights the story of Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids, a Manhattan toy store that was forced to shut down due to the tariffs. The tariffs have created a split in the Christmas economy, with big-box retailers like Walmart and Target able to absorb the costs, while small businesses struggle to stay afloat. The article also notes that the tariffs have not been effective in achieving their intended goal, as the costs are passed on to consumers.

The article discusses how the increasing demand for AI is driving the growth of data centers, which in turn is creating new opportunities for repurposing excess heat from these facilities. Companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, and Google are exploring ways to reuse this heat, such as through district heating networks. Ireland is being cited as a prime example, with AWS's data center in Tallaght providing 92% of a technological campus' heating demand. However, challenges remain, including high capital expenditure costs and infrastructure limitations. New technologies, such as liquid cooling systems, are being developed to capture heat at higher temperatures, making it more practical for reuse.

Micron Technology is investing $24 billion in its Singapore manufacturing facility to expand NAND production amid global memory shortages driven by AI demand. The expansion is expected to create 1,600 jobs and start production in 2028. Micron is also building a $7 billion advanced packaging plant in Singapore to produce high-bandwidth memory for AI applications. The investment is part of Micron's efforts to boost its memory supply and capitalize on the growing demand for AI-related technologies.

Anta Sports, a Chinese sportswear company, is acquiring a 29.06% stake in Puma, a German sportswear company, for $1.79 billion. The deal values Puma at 1.5 billion euros and makes Anta the largest shareholder. Puma has struggled to revive sales after a business overhaul under new CEO Arthur Hoeld. The acquisition is part of Anta's efforts to expand its global footprint and diversify its portfolio. Analysts view the deal as a strategic move, with Puma's brand heritage and product portfolio complementing Anta's existing businesses.

Russia has criticized the US's proposed Golden Dome missile defense system, warning it could destabilize global nuclear deterrence. The system is designed to protect North America from ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missile threats. Defense experts say the project is a geopolitical signal to the world and a bargaining chip with US adversaries, particularly Russia and China. The project is expected to be costly and technologically challenging, with a price tag of trillions of dollars. The US views Canada and Greenland as critical for radar coverage and early-warning infrastructure.

A 19-year-old Iranian amateur boxer, Sepehr Ebrahimi, was shot and killed by Iranian security forces during anti-regime protests near Tehran. His father spent a week searching for his body before identifying it in a morgue. The incident has renewed attention on human rights abuses in Iran and the case of another Iranian boxer, Mohammad Javad Vafaei Sani, who is on death row. The protests are driven by anger over political repression, economic hardship, and human rights abuses, with at least 6,126 people killed since the start of the latest wave of protests.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a document on US security guarantees for Ukraine is '100% ready' for signing. The document is part of ongoing negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the US, which include discussions on territorial issues, security guarantees, and Ukraine's potential membership in the European Union. Recent trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi were described as 'constructive' and focused on parameters for ending Ukraine's war with Russia. The US and Russia have held separate meetings, with Russian President Vladimir Putin meeting US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Josh Gruenbaum in Moscow. Territorial issues, particularly Russia's demands regarding Ukraine's Donbas region, remain a key obstacle. A second round of talks is scheduled for February 1.

The article discusses the resurgence of all-night concerts, known as zat pwe, in Myanmar, a country ravaged by war and military rule since the 2021 coup. The performances, which feature a mix of traditional Burmese music, pop, and comedy, have become a source of comfort and escapism for the audience. The junta has allowed these performances to take place, potentially as a way to project a veneer of legitimacy and normalcy. However, many attendees and performers are simply trying to cope with the difficulties of living under military rule.

The world's richest nations, including the United States, Britain, France, Italy, and Japan, are facing a record debt crisis that threatens global economic growth. The high levels of debt are limiting governments' ability to respond to future economic downturns, pandemics, or wars. The debt crisis is being exacerbated by factors such as aging populations, slow growth, and the need for increased spending on infrastructure, healthcare, and military defense. The situation is particularly dire in countries like Japan, where debt is more than twice the country's annual economic output. The article highlights the risks of financial instability and the need for governments to take action to address the debt crisis.

A powerful winter storm has devastated the Southern United States, bringing heavy snow and ice that has caused widespread power outages, property damage, and loss of life. The storm has affected multiple states, including Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Georgia, with at least 10 deaths reported. The extreme weather has overwhelmed local infrastructure, with hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses losing electricity. Officials are urging residents to be patient as crews work to clear roads and restore power.

The article tells the story of Ejae, a Korean-American singer who was once an aspiring K-pop idol but was dropped by her agency without debuting. She reinvented herself as a songwriter and eventually co-wrote and recorded demos for the soundtrack of the Netflix animated film 'KPop Demon Hunters', which became a huge success. The film's soundtrack, particularly the song 'Golden', has received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations. Ejae's journey is a testament to her perseverance and determination to succeed in the K-pop industry.

The article discusses how New Yorkers enjoyed the snow in Central Park by using makeshift sleds despite freezing cold temperatures. CNN's Gloria Pazmino reported from the scene, capturing the fun and excitement of people sledding and trekking out in the snow. The article is accompanied by a video showing people using various objects as sleds. The story is part of a larger news segment that includes other unrelated news stories.